Union East Campground
4.6710 reviewsUnion East Campground, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Union East Campground
$25.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The Forest Service charges $25 per night for campsites in 2024 and 2025, increasing to $30 per night in 2026. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders receive 50% discounts on the nightly rate, applicable to the site occupied by the pass holder.
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About this campground
Discover a mountain sanctuary where granite peaks cradle the pristine waters of Union Reservoir. Union East Campground beckons adventurers to its pine-scented haven, where towering red firs and lodgepole pines frame your wilderness escape. Here, mornings begin with mirror-like reflections of distant islands on the water's surface, while evenings promise star-filled skies and the gentle whisper of mountain breezes through ancient evergreens.
Union East Campground provides options for both tent and RV camping, with sites tailored more for tent use.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of Sierra seasons at Union East. Winter transforms this alpine retreat into a crystalline wonderland, where temperatures dip to a brisk 40°F and frost paints the granite landscape. As summer arrives, the campground awakens to perfect 80-degree days, inviting swimmers to the reservoir's refreshing waters and hikers to explore sun-dappled forest trails. The comfortable summer climate creates ideal conditions for everything from lazy afternoon fishing to twilight campfire gatherings.
ElevationPerched at 6,800 feet where the air is crisp and pure, Union East offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where every breath feels cleaner and every sunset seems more vibrant. This elevation provides a natural escape from summer heat while placing you firmly in the heart of the Sierra's most spectacular scenery.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, where weathered granite formations rise majestically from forests of aromatic red fir and stately lodgepole pine. Union Reservoir sparkles like a sapphire jewel in this natural amphitheater, its waters dotted with mysterious islands that invite exploration. Visitors consistently marvel at the untouched wilderness that surrounds the campground, where each vista reveals another postcard-perfect scene of mountain grandeur meeting pristine waters.
Geological RegionNature's artistry is on full display in this remarkable granite basin, where eons of geological forces have carved a perfect mountain cradle for Union Reservoir. The campground sits within this natural fortress of stone, where smooth granite slabs warm in the afternoon sun and ancient rock formations tell the story of the Sierra's volcanic past. Majestic red firs and lodgepole pines have claimed their place among the rocks, creating a harmonious blend of stone and forest that defines this extraordinary high-country landscape.
Campsite details
Sites SizeMost campsites are better suited for tents, but a handful of sites can accommodate RVs up to 25 feet, according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as "farther apart than many other campgrounds," offering a high degree of privacy according to users.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive by Wednesday or Thursday to secure a campsite. Spot 14 near the lake is recommended for tranquility.
Best CampsitesUser review highlights spot 14 as close to the lake and offering solitude.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not mentioned.
Check-out
Not mentioned.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated in the source materials.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people per site according to user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced farther apart than other campgrounds, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round as mentioned in authoritative sources.
Reservation PlatformsThis campground does not use online reservation platforms; it operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews confirm that the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Campers advised to arrive by Wednesday or Thursday for better chances of securing a site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy information is not provided.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Union East Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, many centered around its proximity to Union Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy both motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also listed as activities available in the area. The natural setting allows for picturesque views and water-based activities.
Hiking
Day hikes are available, with some user reviews mentioning trips to neighboring lakes, including Alpine Lake and Mosquito Lake.Fishing
Lake and pond fishing opportunities are supported. Specific details about the types of fish available are not included in the source materials.Swimming
Swimming is possible in Union Reservoir, as mentioned by a user who described the experience as "very challenging but great." No information about designated swimming areas or safety measures is available.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an activity available in the area, but no trail-specific details are provided.Boating
The reservoir supports both motorized and non-motorized boating. Kayaking is highlighted in user reviews as a popular activity.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular, as noted in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Tons of collectable firewood all around, just can't cut down what's living."
- Quiet hours are "Silent nights" were mentioned in user reviews, but specific quiet hours were not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNo running water is available at this site; campers must bring their own water. User reviews highlight the presence of bears and the requirement for bear boxes.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 22.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Calaveras Ranger Station is 27 miles away in Hathaway Pines, California.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided in the data.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Union Reservoir, which features many small islands and is often kept full.
Common complaintsComplaints from reviews include lack of running water and difficulty finding campsites due to high demand.
HostThe campground host was praised for being great and keeping the site clean, according to one review.
Campground Map
Union East Campground, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Driving directionsFrom Highway 4, turn onto Spicer Reservoir Road (paved) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto 7N75; from there the roads are gravel. Continue 0.7 miles to a T-intersection. Turn right and continue one mile. Spicer Reservoir Road is 27 miles east of the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathaway Pines, California.
Spicer Reservoir Road is paved for 8 miles, followed by gravel roads for 0.7 miles to the T-intersection and one more mile to the campground. Road quality may vary due to gravel terrain.Nearby places
Hathaway Pines: 27 miles, Calaveras Ranger Station: 27 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies may be available in Hathaway Pines or other nearby towns
exact distances not specified.
Camper Reviews
4.7
10 reviews
Union East Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The majority of user reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, privacy, and proximity to Union Reservoir, as well as its first-come, first-serve availability. The lack of water and limited facilities are noted negatives.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
People praise the "beautiful reservoir," "awesome camping spots," and the peaceful, clean environment. Many mention enjoying kayaking, fishing, and the privacy of campsites that are farther apart....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaint is the lack of water on-site, requiring visitors to bring their own supply. Some also mention difficulty securing a campsite if arriving later in the week and limited RV...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive by Wednesday or Thursday to secure a site. Bring your own water, as potable water is unreliable. Summer weekdays are recommended for fewer crowds. Site #14 has been specifically mentioned for...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most favorable season, with fewer crowds during weekdays. Winter experiences are not well-documented, but the campground's elevation suggests it may be less accessible during heavy...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Heaven on earth with first come, first serve camping. If you can get there by Thursday, you can usually camp for the whole weekend." - Kimberly Croddy
2. "Beautiful reservoir but good luck...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 is highlighted as being "close to the clear lake" and ideal for its location, according to one user. No other site-specific reviews are available.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as dog-friendly, but pets must be leashed, as noted in user reviews.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025